Singapore Institute of Architects

The design brief calls for distinct educational and administrative facilities, in addition to a praying space for 4,000. The architects resolved this with 3 separate blocks with the administrative block slightly angled towards the corner. The judges felt that the array of blocks was attractive and related well to its background of HDB blocks.

The circulation was judged to be responsive to the programme and well-suited to the demands of its different user groups.

Modest materials and details are effectively used to craft a coherent and serene atmosphere, appropriate to the spiritual nature of the building.

The sand-like colour, applied throughout the architecture, was comfortable and unique, while the contemporary treatment of the arches and geometric screens was successful. The porosity of the ground space was well-shaded and yet breezy, showing an appreciation of the tropical climate.

The Jury applauded the project for its skilful handling of an ambitious brief within a compact site, to produce a strong architectural identity and rich spatial quality. The Al Islah Mosque also successfully adapted a historical typology and exceeded the challenges of a modern brief and context.